In a momentous address at the Odisha Legislative Assembly, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik extended a warm welcome to President Droupadi Murmu, emphasising her roots in Odisha and the state’s pivotal role in India’s unity and progress.
The President, who hails from Odisha, was addressing the assembly on Thursday, marking a historic occasion for the state.
Patnaik began by expressing pride in Murmu’s journey, noting that she started her political career in the Odisha Legislative Assembly 25 years ago and has now elevated the state’s prestige as the President of India. “We are all proud that a daughter of this soil is today the President of the nation,” he said, highlighting the significance of her address amid the country’s current challenges.
He underscored India’s strength in “unity in diversity,” crediting diverse languages, lifestyles, customs, cultures, and thoughts for bolstering the nation’s polity. Patnaik recalled the post-Independence integration of princely states, pointing out that Odisha led the way with Nilagiri and other states acceding on November 14, 1947, setting an example for national consolidation.
Paying tribute to Utkal Gouraba Madhusudan Das, Utkal Gouraba Madhusudan Das, Patnaik highlighted his role in creating a separate Odisha province based on language—the first such instance in India—through constitutional means, alongside other national leaders.
As the custodian of India’s Constitution, whose 75th anniversary was recently celebrated, Patnaik said the nation looks to President Murmu for inspiration in preserving India’s soul. He praised Odisha’s remarkable advancements over the past two decades in disaster management, food production, women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, infrastructure, health, education, and industrial growth. “All credit for such phenomenal growth has been possible because of the unstinting support and blessings of the people of Odisha,” he stated.
Patnaik lauded Odisha’s disaster management as a national and international role model, and expressed optimism about the state’s future, given its rich natural resources and skilled workforce. On behalf of the opposition parties, he welcomed the President and anticipated her insightful address.
The event, attended by the Governor, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, distinguished invitees, and media, underscored Odisha’s enduring contributions to India’s democratic fabric.
